Chapter 1: The Struggle of Self-Discovery

Is it just me, or has it always been this challenging to determine my path in life?

Growing up in a conventional household, I was raised with the belief that adults possess the answers and guidance needed for life. Now, as I approach my 27th birthday, I find myself questioning whether I truly qualify as an adult according to my cultural norms.

From the moment I entered this world, my life's journey has felt scripted: finish high school > enroll in a reputable college > graduate > secure a corporate position > marry > climb the career ladder. However, I've reached a standstill. While I remain part of this relentless race for success, I feel the urge to break free and forge my own path.

How does one even begin this process of self-exploration?

Before the pandemic hit, I sought validation through acquiring new skills and securing better-paying jobs. Yet, after repeating this cycle several times, I've come to realize that the brief joy I experience during these transitions quickly fades. Once I settle into a new role, the excitement I anticipated often dissipates, leading me back to square one.

It took nearly two years of social distancing to articulate this unhealthy pattern of seeking validation. I am both surprised and relieved that I've come to this realization now, rather than later. This newfound understanding has ignited a desire in me to thoughtfully consider my next steps.

Do right choices have to be complicated?

In the past few months, as the thrill of my new position began to diminish, I sought out new areas of interest. I turned to TikTok for both entertainment and inspiration. If you’ve spent any time on the platform, you know that content related to product management has surged in popularity. While this can be both advantageous and overwhelming, it also triggered fond memories of my college days, where I thrived on collaborating with peers to solve business challenges.

I recalled the curiosity and enthusiasm I once had, and it made me realize how much I've missed the act of problem-solving for others.

You might think that with these realizations and insights, transitioning to a new career would be straightforward. However, as a habitual overthinker, I know that making any decision is rarely easy.

I aspire to shift my career to rekindle joy in my life, but I worry it may be fleeting like previous experiences. Would creating my own product offer more fulfillment? Does that mean I must remain in the corporate grind without making real progress?

These are the questions I must answer for myself, and I recognize the journey is mine to navigate. Yet, I sometimes wish there were someone who could simplify these choices for me. But as life teaches us:

If it’s not challenging, I likely won’t pursue it.

Have I uncovered a secret to clarity in my life?

Absolutely not. I’m still searching for direction. However, I hold onto the hope that many others share this feeling of being lost. My goal is to gradually uncover the answers—day by day, week by week, and month by month. I intend to use this platform to document my self-discovery and growth.

As Gary Vee wisely stated, "Document, Don’t create!" I will commit to consistently sharing my journey moving forward.

If you're interested in following the musings of a twenty-something navigating life, I welcome your thoughts and engagement.

Chapter 2: Documenting the Journey

In this insightful video, "How to Figure Out What You Really Want in Life," viewers are guided through various strategies for self-exploration and goal setting.

The second video, "Stop Trying To Figure Your Life Out," encourages viewers to embrace uncertainty and take life one step at a time.